Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported net income of $14.4 million and diluted earnings per share of $1.42, an improvement of 87% year over year [4][5] - Total revenue reached a record high of $165 million, up 13% year over year [15][16] - The operating expense ratio improved to 12.8%, marking an all-time best [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The portfolio grew by $93 million sequentially, surpassing $2 billion in net receivables for the first time [4][5] - Total originations in the third quarter reached a record high of $522 million, up 23% from the prior year [14][15] - Auto-secured loans grew by $80 million, or 41% year over year, representing 13.4% of the portfolio [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The 30-plus-day delinquency rate was 7%, a slight increase of 10 basis points year over year, but improved by 30 basis points when adjusted for prior year hurricane impacts [8][16] - The net credit loss rate improved to 7.2%, a 170 basis point improvement sequentially and a 40 basis point improvement year over year [8][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to open five new branches before year-end and another 5-10 in the first half of 2026, with potential entry into one to two new states [10][12] - The Barbell strategy focusing on growth and higher-quality auto-secured loans continues to be effective [10][11] - Investments in technology and data analytics are aimed at improving customer experience and operational efficiency [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in consumer health and the company's ability to grow responsibly while maintaining a tight credit box [5][6] - For 2025, the company forecasts full-year net income of $43.5 million, with growth dependent on macroeconomic conditions [12][13] - The board approved an increase in the stock repurchase program from $30 million to $60 million, indicating a strong balance sheet [13][19] Other Important Information - The company announced the retirement of its President and CEO, Rob Beck, with Lockbier Lomba set to succeed him [4][22] - The company has returned an aggregate of $26 million in capital to shareholders through stock repurchases and dividends [9][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the acceleration in same-store sales? - Management noted strong momentum from digital channels and traditional renewal customers, allowing for selective customer choices within a tight credit box [24][25] Question: Any changes in product mix expected for 2026? - The company remains nimble and expects continued growth in auto-secured loans while adapting to economic conditions [27][28] Question: What factors contributed to the outperformance versus guidance? - Demand remained strong, and the company was able to meet that demand within its conservative risk box [39][40] Question: How is the marketing expense efficiency achieved? - The efficiency is attributed to new models that allow for optimized spending and customer selection, which management hopes will be sustainable [43][45]